Baltimore

You can trace the roots of the recent Baltimore uprising back to the LA race riots of 1965 and 1992. What can and should be done when those who are vested with the power to serve and protect the people, continue to show that such power has not only been abused, but it has consistently been abused in a disproportionate manner against people of color?

And to be more specific, when compounded with the rise of the prison industrial complex and its focus on African-American youth, what is to be done when one confronts the uneven orientation towards unnecessarily causing harm, even death to those particular people? Well, the people of Baltimore are not keeping quiet.

The recent civil unrest in the US started on April 25th as a response to the death of Freddie Gray, a 25-year-old African-American who died in police custody after being arrested. As the story goes, Gray was arrested, but later passed due to injuries sustained during his arrest. Six police officers are currently under suspension pending further investigation. Based on protests that erupted after Gray's funeral, thousands of police and Maryland Army National Guard troops have been deployed to Baltimore, a state of emergency has been declared in the city limits, and hundreds have been arrested. What can you do, learn and contribute to what's happening in Baltimore?

Click the links on 1965 and 1992 above and gain some context. Sort through some news feeds to read differing perspectives/thoughts on the matter, then read this. Kirsten Clodfelter speaks wisdom and offers truth.

All the sigs are here. The earth is at a tipping point environmentally, even the fattest fat cat knows capitalism is failing as more and more realize its destructive nature, and more and more, people are not letting oppressive power continue in tyranny without at least a fight.

In respect to all who are loved ones of Mr. Gray, and with the continued hope for a world of equal rights and justice, I hope you can continue searching to find your voce in this movement and contribute. There's never been a better time.

 With love to Baltimore and in solidarity.